SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 1, 2025 - A timeless icon reaches a milestone
Few names in the automotive world evoke elegance and urban flair quite like the Lancia Ypsilon. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the iconic city car—a journey that began in 1985 and has since captivated over three million drivers across five generations and 36 unforgettable special series.
As Roberto Giolito, Head of Stellantis Heritage, perfectly puts it: “The Lancia Ypsilon’s story tells of a timeless icon which has been able to both evolve and stay true to itself. These forty years of style and innovation have made it one of the standard-bearers in the European automotive industry.”
Bold beginnings: from Autobianchi to automotive stardom
The Ypsilon’s journey began with the Y10, unveiled in March 1985 at the Geneva International Motor Show. Designed to succeed the Autobianchi A112, it impressed audiences with a wedge-shaped silhouette, an opaque black tailgate, and innovative features like an electric rear window—unheard of in its segment at the time. With over one million units sold, the Y10 laid the foundation for the Lancia Y’s debut in 1995.
Technological elegance with the FIRE engine and AWD
A hallmark of the Ypsilon's legacy is its blend of innovation and premium appeal. The Y10 introduced the FIRE (Fully Integrated Robotized Engine), a reliable and efficient powertrain that would power countless Fiat Group vehicles for years. Paired with luxury finishes like Alcantara and optional features such as electrically powered windows, the Y10 4WD brought all-wheel-drive practicality to the stylish urbanite.
Y becomes Ypsilon: redefining the city car
The 1995 Lancia Y pushed design boundaries with bold colors, refined materials, and a strong urban identity. Its evolution continued in 2003 with the third generation, featuring improved interior space, turbocharged engines, and enhanced infotainment systems—positioning it as a luxury vehicle in a compact frame.
By 2011, the fourth generation Ypsilon embraced a five-door design, reaching a wider audience while maintaining its signature elegance. It also marked the launch of eco-conscious editions under the EcoChic badge, offering LPG and CNG variants that balanced performance with sustainability.
“The right car for beautiful people” and 36 unforgettable series
Marketing played a major role in defining the Ypsilon’s unique personality. Campaigns like “The right car for beautiful people” resonated across generations, while celebrity endorsements—from Eva Herzigova to Cristiana Capotondi—cemented its aspirational image. Special editions such as the Y10 Fila, Ypsilon Alberta Ferretti, and Ypsilon Elle further showcased Lancia’s ability to fuse automotive innovation with the fashion world.
New Ypsilon: the future of Lancia starts here
The New Ypsilon ushers in a bold new era for the brand. Inspired by legendary models like the Lancia Stratos, it features LED “chalice” lighting, round taillights, and the debut of Stellantis’ advanced S.A.L.A. interface. With three versions—New Ypsilon, New Ypsilon LX, and the standout New Ypsilon Edizione Cassina—the model blends sustainability with Italian craftsmanship.
Boasting a 10.25” display, Level 2 Autonomous Driving (on the Cassina version), and best-in-class lighting and parking systems, the New Ypsilon sets a new standard in the premium B-segment. All variants are available in hybrid and electric configurations, reinforcing Lancia’s commitment to eco-friendly urban mobility.
Revving up for the return to rally
Celebrating its motorsport legacy, Lancia has introduced the Ypsilon Rally 4 HF and the 280-hp Ypsilon HF. The former, developed with rally legend Miki Biasion, features a 212-HP 1.2 Turbo engine, high-performance components, and a design ready to dominate the Italian Absolute Rally Championship. With €360,000 in prize money, the Trofeo Lancia promises to make motorsport dreams a reality for young drivers.
A legacy that keeps driving forward
Four decades on, the Lancia Ypsilon continues to charm drivers with its unmistakable style, technological innovation, and commitment to both heritage and future. As Roberto Giolito says, “The baton has been passed to the first vehicle of the brand’s new era, the New Ypsilon, which will carry on with this extraordinary tradition with elegance and state-of-the-art technology.”
Ready to experience 40 years of excellence in motion?
Explore the New Lancia Ypsilon lineup and discover how the legacy of Italian design and innovation continues to lead the way in urban mobility.